Woman Who Went Viral for Cleaning Gravestones Reveals Her Biggest Fear About Posting Videos (Exclusive)

NEED TO KNOW

• Caitlin Abrams, who operates under the TikTok handle @manicpixiemom, has amassed nearly three million followers by sharing videos focused on cleaning gravestones and exploring the histories of those interred.

• In an exclusive interview, Abrams discussed her motivations for taking up this unusual hobby and the growth of her online community, which began during the pandemic.

Abrams, a first-time mother living in Vermont, first engaged with gravestone cleaning as a form of personal solace. Her interest in genealogy, sparked by early family influences, steered her toward this unique activity, combining history and caretaking.

She began by volunteering with the website Find a Grave, which led to requests for cleaning gravestones. After some initial hesitation about posting her work online, she embraced TikTok as a platform for sharing her findings and experiences.

Abrams also hosts a podcast called Mortal Mysteries, delving into historical true crime and mysteries, further highlighting her passion for storytelling and history.

In her endeavors, she aims to preserve the stories of those she features, creating an educational space while promoting respect for individuals buried in cemeteries.

• Why it matters:
  • The rise in niche online communities can bridge generational gaps and foster understanding of history.
  • Businesses might see potential in partnering with content creators who focus on historical education and storytelling.
• The latest:
  • Abrams’ online presence continues to grow, emphasizing the importance of historical research and personal stories in contemporary media.